With 19 library buildings located between Corryton and Farragut, there’s always something to do at the library itself. We have 150 + programs every month, from storytimes to book clubs. But anyone with a KCPL card knows that we go way beyond our brick-and-mortar walls. There are Storybook Trails to wander and Explorer Passes to check out.

And that doesn’t include all the ebooks, audiobooks, movies, music, magazines and resources that can be downloaded or streamed from anywhere … It’s a mere cloud away. If you live out of the county, you can pay a small fee to still use all the services, too!

Speaking of clouds, the weather is perfect for a stroll and a read. On one of these nice, crisp afternoons, take some time to enjoy the great outdoors and be delighted by a good storybook along the way. With five trails to choose from, you won’t have to repeat a story for a while. We’ve just rotated our Storybook Trail panels, so you’ll find a different story at your favorite park! Plus, we’ve added a brand-new title to the mix. Maple and Willow Apart by Lori Nichols now graces the trail at the Beverly Park off Tazwell Pike.

Middle or high schoolers might want to check out an Explorer Pass for tickets or admission to the theatre or a cultural attraction. We recommend Beowulf at the Knoxville Children’s Theatre. Lest that title sounds intimidating, think of it as the story of the first superhero. After all, superheroes got their start somewhere.

Beowulf is the tale of the great warrior who saves the Kingdom of the Danes from the greedy ravages of the monster Grendel and other forces. Other Explorer Pass options include admission to the Historic Homes, Zoo Knoxville, The Muse and area museums. Reservations require an active adult library card.

About once a month, we host a downtown walking tour with Laura Still of Knoxville Walking Tours. This November 3, she’ll be exploring tales of Puppies and Horses and Bears, Oh MY! We’ll meet on the steps of Lawson McGhee Library and go from there.

We’re also taking the library to one of the most exotic locales in town. We’re excited to partner with the Friends of the Library and Oliver Hospitality to offer a behind-the-scenes sneak peek party at the Andrew Johnson Hotel on November 15. The iconic building has been a defining feature of Knoxville’s skyline for 100 years. In its heyday, it was the premier hotel that was host to celebrities and society balls alike. The stories that building could tell! Someone should write a book about it. All proceeds from the event will support TAMIS.

Mary Pom Claiborne is assistant director for marketing, communications and development for Knox County Public Library.